About the disease
Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (AD-PKD) is a problem in Persian cats and related breeds, especially Chinchillas, Exotics and British Shorthairs. The Molecular Diagnostic Unit has been offering a genetic test to diagnose autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (AD-PKD) in cats since April 2005.
What breeds are at risk -
Moderate risk of PKD - Persian, Chincilla, Exotic Shorthair, British Shorthair, Himalayan
Low risk of PKD - Asian, Birman, Burmilla, Bombay, Cornish Rex, Devon Rex, Ragdoll, Scottish Fold, Selkirk Rex, Siberian, Snowshoe, Tiffine.
Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (AD-PKD) is a problem in Persian cats and related breeds, especially Chinchillas, Exotics and British Shorthairs. The Molecular Diagnostic Unit has been offering a genetic test to diagnose autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (AD-PKD) in cats since April 2005.
What breeds are at risk -
Moderate risk of PKD - Persian, Chincilla, Exotic Shorthair, British Shorthair, Himalayan
Low risk of PKD - Asian, Birman, Burmilla, Bombay, Cornish Rex, Devon Rex, Ragdoll, Scottish Fold, Selkirk Rex, Siberian, Snowshoe, Tiffine.
About the test
This genetic test is a PCR-based pyrosequencing assay and evaluations of the test have shown excellent agreement with the results of ultrasound screening. The test has revolutionised testing for AD-PKD.
Until recently specialist ultrasound scanning was been required for diagnosis, but the identification of a specific genetic mutation associated with feline AD-PKD means that PCR can now be used to identify Affected cats.
Cats screened using our genetic test and found to be negative for the PKD mutation can be listed on the ICC PKD negative register.
For Inclusion on the ICC PKD Negative Register, the sample submitted for PKD testing MUST be taken by a veterinary surgeon and labelled with the cat's microchip number. Your vet must complete a vet checked submission form, which you will need to include when you send us your swabs.
This graph shows the percentage of PKD Affected cats detected by the Molecular Diagnostic Unit between 2005 and 2018. This clearly shows a decline in the percentage of cats testing positive for the AD-PKD genetic mutation, which is likely due to AD-PKD screening and selective breeding.
This graph shows the percentage of PKD Affected cats detected by the Molecular Diagnostic Unit between 2005 and 2018. This clearly shows a decline in the percentage of cats testing positive for the AD-PKD genetic mutation, which is likely due to AD-PKD screening and selective breeding.
Interpretation of results
A Normal AD-PKD genetic test result means that the cat does not have the respective genetic mutation.
An Affected AD-PKD genetic test result means that the cat has one normal and one mutant copy of the PKD1 gene. Presence of the mutant PKD1 gene has been strongly associated with polycystic kidney disease.
Each certificate we issue will specify whether the cat is Normal or Affected for the PKD1 mutation.
Frequently Asked Questions
I am a vet, why does one of my clients need me to send in their cat's sample for genetic testing?
International Cat Care run some “negative genetic registers” and the GCCF run some “active registers”. For cats to be placed on these registers the sample (mouth swab or blood sample) MUST be taken by a vet who confirms the cat’s identity using its microchip number. The microchip number must be written on the submission form AND sample.
We have a dedicated submission form for this purpose, which both the owner and vet must complete. The certificate will state that the cat’s identity was confirmed by a vet and you can use this to register the cat with the ICC negative or GCCF active registers.
If a breeder DOES NOT want their cat to go on these registers then they can take a mouth swab and submit it directly to the lab.
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